North Korean defector Yeonmi Park, author and survivor of Mao’s Cultural Revolution Xi Van Fleet, Babylon Bee CEO Seth Dillon, and Dr. Gary Saul Morson came together at Cornerstone University for a powerful discussion on the dangers of communism and socialism.
Held in partnership with Cornerstone University as part of its Wisdom Conversation speaking series, the event focused on why communism and socialism should not be embraced in the United States and highlighted the freedoms, opportunities and prosperity Americans enjoy under the system of government and free-market economy today.
The panel discussed the alarming trend of young Americans increasingly embracing socialism and examined what socialism looks like in practice beyond its promises. Speakers pointed to case studies such as Soviet Russia, China, and North Korea as examples of countries with rich history and tradition terrorized by communist revolutionaries who deteriorated their identity, thriving through created conflict.
The panel emphasized the stark contrast between the promises of socialism and the realities experienced by those living under socialist and communist regimes. They also drew parallels to how the different regimes came to power and how socialism has taken root in America.
The event drew an outstanding crowd, with more than 1,200 students filling the auditorium. An additional overflow room welcomed more than 400 students who were unable to secure a seat in the main auditorium, demonstrating the strong interest among students and members of the community in hearing directly from the speakers.
The speakers provided firsthand accounts and perspectives on life under communist and socialist regimes, giving students the opportunity to hear what those systems can look like beyond the promises often used to promote them. Through their personal experiences and insights, the event challenged students to consider the realities of communism and socialism and appreciate the freedoms and institutions that have shaped American life under our current system.
With the idea of socialism being so wide spread it is the job of Young America’s Foundation to step up and spread conservative voices on college campuses where progressive ideology flourishes. Students across the country need to hear the truth of what Communism actually is.